Latest Updates

John Fox preaching open competition, even at QB

by Larry Hartstein | Senior Analyst

(3/26/2015)New Bears coach John Fox called it "all an open competition" when asked if he could see a scenario in which quarterback Jay Cutler had to compete for the starting job, reports ESPN.com. Jimmy Clausen is Cutler's projected backup.

“I would say logically if you are looking at the depth chart and you are asking me for it two weeks before we can really get anything going, I’d say be [Cutler would be] first on the depth chart, yeah,” Fox said.

“Obviously you’ve got to start somewhere and my experience in football and really anything is it’s not where you start the race it’s where you finish it. We have to start the race with some kind of lineup, and we have not discussed that in depth. We have not presented it to our players in depth. I think it’s important for them to see it maybe more than you guys. I’ve had guys who were third on the depth chart that by the time we started the opener were first. I can’t tell you what’s happening. If I could I’d be at some race track somewhere.”

John Fox aiming to rebuild QB Jay Cutler's confidence

by Larry Hartstein | Senior Analyst

(3/25/2015)New Bears coach John Fox said quarterback Jay Cutler might have gotten to the point last year "where he lacked confidence," reports the Chicago Tribune.

"To build that back up, it’s going to take time, daily," Fox added. "It takes trust, like any relationship.”

Fox plans to help Cutler, who committed 24 turnovers last season, by building a strong defense and relying more on the running game. Fox praised how the Cowboys used Tony Romo last year in tandem with NFL rushing leader DeMarco Murray.

“Football-wise, there are things you can do in coaching to minimize some of the exposure,” Fox said. “Playing defense. Playing complementary football is going to be something that helps. I liken it a little bit, not being critical, to Tony Romo. I think there had been different things said. I know Tony personally. He’s a tremendous competitor. I thought he had one of his better seasons a year ago with that same kind of build-up. With success comes confidence.”

Bears announce they're sticking with QB Jay Cutler

by Larry Hartstein | Senior Analyst

(3/11/2015)Not that they really had any choice, but the Bears confirmed Wednesday that Jay Cutler will be their starting quarterback. "We've made that decision," GM Ryan Pace said, per ESPN.com. "We're moving forward with Jay Cutler as our starting quarterback."

Cutler, 31, signed a seven-year, $126 million contract last offseason and is guaranteed $15.5 million this year. If he's on the roster at 4 p.m. ET Thursday, $10 million of his $16 million salary in 2016 also becomes guaranteed.

Pace said the Bears never explored trading Cutler, per ESPN. He accounted for 30 touchdowns and 24 turnovers last season while throwing for 3,812 yards, the second-highest total of his career.

Report: Bears re-sign QB Jimmy Clausen

New Bears coach John Fox drafted Clausen in 2010 when he was in charge of the Panthers. The new Chicago front office are reportedly uncertain of Jay Cutler's future with the club, so Clausen's role with the team remains to be seen.

Clausen, 27, got the start over Cutler in Week 16 before suffering a concussion. He completed 23 of 39 passes for 181 yards, two touchdowns and one interception, and was unable to play the season finale.

Bears' Fox on Jay Cutler's future: 'We're not up against a deadline'

by Igor Mello | CBSSports.com

(2/18/2015)Bears coach John Fox met with the media on Tuesday and remained noncommittal to longtime starter Jay Cutler, dancing around questions about his future with the team, reports ESPN Chicago.

"We're not up against a deadline," Fox said, per the Chicago Tribune. "We'll keep you posted."

Cutler's "ability and talent (are there). A lot more goes into it. We're evaluating that as we speak," Fox said, per the Plain Dealer.

Fox also revealed that he met free agent quarterback Josh McCown prior to his combine press conference, adding that "he's the right kind of guy...that you want on your football team."

Cutler, 31, signed a seven-year, $126 million contract with the Bears last offseason and is guaranteed to make $15.5 million next season. He threw for 3,812 passing yards, the most since 2008 when he was a member of the Broncos. He added 28 touchdowns and a league-high 18 interceptions in 2014.

Bears' Fox on free agent Josh McCown: 'He's the right kind of guy'

by Igor Mello | CBSSports.com

(2/18/2015)Free agent quarterback Josh McCownmet with new Bears coach John Fox at the combine in Indianapolis on Wednesday, reports NFL.com. Fox was noncommittal to longtime starter Jay Cutler during his combine news conference.

McCown enjoyed his best season with the Bears in 2013 before he left Chicago for Tampa Bay in 2014. He was released by the Buccaneers after one season where he threw for 2,206 yards, 11 touchdowns and 14 interceptions in 11 games. The 35-year-old veteran has just 49 starts in his resume.

"He's the right kind of guy...that you want on your football team," Fox said. "We'll see where it goes."

Bears QB Jay Cutler held in check in season finale

by Igor Mello | CBSSports.com

(12/28/2014)Bears quarterback Jay Cutler turned in another disappointing performance in Sunday's season finale against the Vikings in Week 17.

Cutler completed 23 of 36 passes for 172 yards, with no touchdowns in a 13-9 defeat. He finishes the year with 3,812 passing yards, the most since 2008 when he was a member of the Broncos. He also added 28 touchdowns and a league-high 18 interceptions.

Clausen absorbed a helmet-to-helmet hit by defensive end Ezekiel Ansah as he slid to the ground during a 20-14 defeat to Detroit. He was checked multiple times after hit but did not exhibit any signs or symptoms of a concussion until he left the stadium Sunday night. He was taken to the hospital for further testing, according to Ian Rapoport of the NFL Network.

Clausen earned his first start since his rookie year with the Panthers in 2010. He compiled 181 yards while completing 22 of 39 passes. He added two touchdowns and one interception in a 20-14 defeat to Detroit.

"We'll talk about it today," Bears coach Marc Trestman said. "I thought he had a good performance. He needed some help. He didn't get it -- had a few drops along the way, had a couple missed assignments up front in the running game, where we could've had a little bit more yardage. But I thought he handled himself (well), for two practices and having not played (much) for four years. It was certainly a good performance."

Chicago is currently a 6 1/2-point underdog at Minnesota.

Bears QB Jimmy Clausen fades after strong effort Sunday

by Marty Gitlin | CBSSports.com

(12/21/2014)Bears quarterback Jimmy Clausen performed well for much of his 2014 starting debut Sunday against Detroit, but faded down the stretch in yet another loss.

Clausen completed just one pass for one yard in the first two possessions, but picked it up in the second quarter and finished the half 14 of 23 for 106 yards and an 11-yard touchdown pass to featured back Matt Forte. He added a 20-yard scoring strike to Alshon Jeffery in the third, but hit on just 4 of 10 for 25 yards and a critical interception in a fourth quarter that doomed his team to defeat. He finished 23 of 39 for 181 yards.

If Clausen is given the starting nod in Week 17, as expected, he will do so in a meaningless game at Minnesota.

Cutler has accounted for 30 touchdowns and a league-high 24 turnovers for the 5-9 Bears. He has the seventh-best completion percentage (66.1) among all quarterbacks this season. He signed a seven-year, $126 million contract in January and is guaranteed to make $15.5 million next season.

Demoted QB Jay Cutler says he wants to stay in Chicago

by Larry Hartstein | Senior Analyst

(12/18/2014)Bears quarterback Jay Cutler, who's been benched for Jimmy Clausen, told reporters he hopes to continue his career in Chicago. "I would like to stay here. I really like it here," Cutler said. "I love the guys in the locker room. This is where I'd like to be."

Cutler signed a seven-year, $126 million contract in January and admitted the deal came with big expectations. "I wish we would have played better, I wish I would have played better," he said. "Then we wouldn't be in this sitaution."

Cutler said he was shocked and disappointed by the benching but called head coach Marc Trestman a "heck of a quarterbacks coach." Asked if he could play for Trestman in 2015, Cutler said, "Yes. ... I think I could. I definitely could."

Cutler has accounted for 30 touchdowns and a league-high 24 turnovers for the 5-9 Bears. His contract guarantees him $15.5 million next season.

Marc Trestman: 'We need a lift at quarterback'

by Larry Hartstein | Senior Analyst

(12/18/2014)Bears coach Marc Trestman explained his decision to bench Jay Cutler for Jimmy Clausen, saying in a press conference: "I think we need a lift at quarterback. I think we need a spark." Trestman said Cutler will be the backup quarterback Sunday against the Lions.

The coach said he's made no decision about who will start the regular-season finale.

"This is in the best interest of our football team," Trestman said. "We need some better play from the quarterback position."

Cutler leads the league with 24 turnovers. Clausen hasn't started a game since his rookie year of 2010, when he went 1-9 as a starter and played in 13 games with Carolina.

Chicago opened as a 6.5-point home underdog but is now getting 8.5 or 9 points throughout Las Vegas.

Jay Cutler stumbles backward into decent Fantasy showing

by Chris Towers | CBSSports.com

(12/16/2014)Bears quarterback Jay Cutler's stat line looked better than he did in Week 15's loss to the Saints Monday.

Cutler finished with 17 Fantasy points, a solid showing overall, but that doesn't quite tell the whole story. Cutler tossed two touchdowns in the fourth quarter with the Bears mostly out of it, including one with 30 seconds left in the game that put him back in a respectable Fantasy showing.

Cutler has had a mostly disastrous season for the Bears, but he hasn't been a total waste in Fantasy. He has at least 17 Fantasy points in four of his last six games, including a 19-point showing against the Lions in Week 13. He takes on the Lions again in Week 16, and though he isn't a great starting option, he still has some value as a borderline top-10 option.

Jay Cutler seizes NFL lead in interceptions

by Larry Hartstein | Senior Analyst

(12/15/2014)Bears quarterback Jay Cutler's miserable season got worse Monday night in a 31-15 home loss to the Saints. Cutler completed 17 of 31 passes for 194 yards and two meaningless fourth-quarter touchdowns with three interceptions, giving him an NFL-high 18 picks this year.

And he took a seven-sack beating.

Cutler overtook Jaguars rookie Blake Bortles (17 INTs) for the interception lead and has a league-high 24 turnovers. That's more turnovers than 23 NFL teams have committed.

Cutler got picked on the game's first series. His off-target throw deflected off tight end Martellus Bennett, and corner Patrick Robinson made a diving interception. Cutler's other two picks came on a virtual Hail Mary at the end of the first half and an overthrow intended for Alshon Jeffery.

Cutler threw for 56 yards in the first half with a 14.9 passer rating. He broke the shutout early in the fourth quarter, hitting wideout Marquess Wilson for a 1-yard score and Bennett for a 2-point conversion. Cutler threw a 7-yard touchdown to Jeffery with 30 seconds left.

Cutler, who ran once for 20 yards, plays the Lions in Week 16.

Bears OC Aaron Kromer issues public apology to QB Jay Cutler

by Igor Mello | CBSSports.com

(12/12/2014)Bears offensive coordinator Aaron Kromer addressed the media and issued a public apology to quarterback Jay Cutler on Friday, according to the Chicago Tribune. Kromer denied making comments about the franchise having buyer's remorse about Cutler's contract, but did admit to criticizing Cutler's play to the NFL Network recently.

"I made a very poor decision talking about things outside the building. I recognize I made a mistake," Kromer said.

Following Kromer's press conference, Cutler addressed the media and called it a "dead issue." Cutler also said he thinks it's fair that his future is being questioned by the media. "Whatever happens, we'll talk about that when it happens I guess," he said, per ESPN.

Bears QB Jay Cutler turns in strong game Week 14

by Chris Cwik | CBSSports.com

(12/4/2014)Bears quarterback Jay Cutler turned in a strong game Week 14 against the Cowboys.

Things may have looked iffy at the start, but Cutler and the Bears showed some life late in the contest. Cutler did manage to strike early, hitting Martellus Bennett on a 12 yard score in the first quarter. He didn't find the end zone again until the fourth quarter.

With the team down 28, Cutler started the rally. He hit Alshon Jeffery on a 27 yard touchdown strike, and wound up running in a 10 yard touchdown a few series later. With the team still trailing late, Cutler did toss a game-ending interception from the 10 yard line.

Cutler finished 32 of 46 for 341 yards and two passing touchdowns. He threw one interception and had one rushing score. Cutler finished with 9 rushing yards.

He'll look for more week 15 against the Saints.

Bears QB Jay Cutler tosses one score Week 12

by Chris Cwik | CBSSports.com

(11/23/2014)Bears quarterback Jay Cutler had a tough game Week 12 against the Bucs.

Cutler completed 17 of 27 passes for 130 yards and a score. Chicago could not get any big plays going, averaging just 4.8 yards per completion. He also found himself under pressure, and was sacked three times. Cutler also fumbled once, turning the ball over. He did not have any rushing attempts.

Cutler will look for more against the Lions Week 13.

Bears QB Jay Cutler throws three touchdowns Week 11

Cutler completed 31 of 43 passes for 330 yards. He was able to hit his receivers deep, averaging 7.6 yards per completion. Cutler was kept clean in the pocket, and was not sacked during the contest. Cutler did throw two interceptions, so it wasn't all good. Still, Cutler had a nice game utilizing the size of his receivers. Alshon Jeffery hauled in a 27 yard score in the second quarter, and Brandon Marshall followed it up with a 44 yard touchdown reception. Marshall would strike again on a 4 yard score later in the game.

Cutler will look for more Week 12 against the Buccaneers.

Jay Cutler still searching for answers

by Chris Towers | CBSSports.com

(11/10/2014)Bears quarterback Jay Cutler is on pace for a career-high in touchdowns this season, but his recent play has left a lot to be desired, as he showed yet again in Week 10.

Cutler is averaging two touchdowns per game this season, but much of that came in the season's first five weeks, when he racked up 13 total scores. In four games since, including Week 10's debacle against the Packers, Cutler has just seven touchdowns, including three games with just one.

The most concerning part about his recent play is that Cutler has had his full complement of weapons available and has still struggled this badly. Wide receiver Brandon Marshall was limited badly by an ankle injury through the first five games, but has been a full-go over the last four, which has somehow coincided with Cutler's struggles.

Though the Bears' offensive line has had injury issues, Cutler really doesn't have a lot of excuses at this point. He has struggled against both good and bad pass defenses during this stretch, and just hasn't looked like the quarterback we expected. With a tough matchup on the way in Week 11 against the Vikings,

Bears could give Cutler more chances to throw outside pocket

by Michael Hurcomb | CBSSports.com

(11/4/2014)Bears coach Marc Trestman said after watching plenty of game film during the team's Week 9 bye that the team could start having quarterback Jay Cutler throw more outside the pocket, according to ESPN.

"We’ve talked about all of that over the bye week, and how we can do some different things for him to help him," Trestman said. "We’ll continue to work on that, and see how that goes in the second half."

"I think it has a residual effect on a lot of different things: the pass rush, on the passing spot, on how it applies to your run game," Trestman said. "Because a lot of times when you’re moving the pocket, it’s relative to a play-action fake or movement of some kind where you’re faking a run, and you’re moving outside the pocket. So there’s a residual effect on pass rush and in the run game when you can do those kinds of things."

Jay Cutler handles tough defense

by Scott White | Senior Fantasy Writer

(10/26/2014)Despite going against a defense that entered the day ranked No. 1 against the pass, Bears quarterback Jay Cutler threw three touchdown passes Week 8 at New England, ending a stretch of two straight games with just one touchdown pass.

And when you consider he had two interceptions in back-to-back games before then, meaning Weeks 4 and 5, you could argue this was his best statistical performance in five games.

Now, the score probably had something to do with it. Because the game was already decided at halftime, when Cutler had just 66 yards and a touchdown, the Patriots were content to give up yardage in the second half so long as they prevented the quick score.

Still, Cutler's Fantasy owners had to be encouraged by the performance against a tough defense after he had underwhelmed the last few weeks. Between Brandon Marshall, Alshon Jeffery, Martellus Bennett and Matt Forte, he still has some of the best weapons of any quarterback and will be worth starting more weeks than not going forward.

The Bears are on bye in Week 9 before visiting the Packers in Week 10.

Bears QB Jimmy Clausen sees some time Week 8

by Chris Cwik | CBSSports.com

(10/26/2014)Bears quarterback Jimmy Clausen managed to get in the game Week 8 against the Patriots.

With the Bears down big, Clausen got a chance to lead the offense. He completed one pass for 22 yards. Clausen had five attempts. The Bears are on a bye Week 9.

Bears QB Jay Cutler contributes late Week 8

by Chris Cwik | CBSSports.com

(10/26/2014)Bears quarterback Jay Cutler turned in a solid game Week 8 against the Patriots.

Cutler's numbers are more deceptive than they seem. The Bears fell behind by quite a bit early, partially due to Cutler turnovers. With the game out of reach, he managed to toss a couple touchdowns. Cutler finished 20 of 30, with 227 yards and three scores. He tossed one interception and lost a fumble during the game. He also had one scramble for 6 yards.

The Bears are on a bye Week 9.

Jay Cutler stumbles in loss to Dolphins

by Chris Towers | CBSSports.com

(10/19/2014)Consistency has always been the issue for Bears quarterback Jay Cutler, and his performance Sunday was a good example of that how bad things can get.

After opening the season with multiple touchdowns in each of his first five games, Cutler has just two over the last two games. He completed 61.8 percent of his 34 passes Sunday, but managed just 190 yards through the air in Week 7 against the Dolphins, mostly because he could not get on the same page with Alshon Jeffery and Brandon Marshall -- he completed just eight of 17 passes to that duo for 57 yards Sunday. That is obviously not the key to success for him.

When things are going well for Cutler, there is little doubt he can be a strong Fantasy contributor, as he showed in putting up 20-plus Fantasy points in each of his first six games. He will try to get back to that level in Week 8, against a Patriots defense that is surrendering 22.3 Fantasy points per game to opposing quarterbacks over the last four games.

Bears QB Jay Cutler does little in Week 8 defeat

(10/19/2014)Bears quarterback Jay Cutler wasn't much of a factor and was held under 200 passing yards for the second time this season in a disappointing home loss to the Dolphins in Week 7.

Cutler was picked off by Reshad Jones in the second quarter. He bounced back from a slow start with a 10-yard touchdown pass to Matt Forte on the opening drive of the second half, but failed to do much else the rest of the way. He compiled 190 yards through the air while completing 21 of 34 attempts. He added one touchdown and one interception, registering 74.4 passer rating. He was sacked three times and rushed for three yards on two attempts.

"I thought Jay had an excellent game," Trestman said, per The Chicago Tribune. "He played a complete game. He took care of the football, No. 1. I thought he managed the game very well, managed the adversity that we had in the game. He took some hits, was able to respond to that. We were backed up a few times. We had some long drives. I thought overall he played a very clean game."

There's no slowing Jay Cutler down

by Chris Towers | CBSSports.com

(10/5/2014)Bears quarterback Jay Cutler has succeed in a number of different ways, and he found yet another in Week 5 against the Panthers.

Cutler racked up three touchdowns, his fifth multi-score game in a row to open the season, and he did it in a different way than in the past. Entering Sunday's game, all 10 of his touchdown passes had gone to his tight ends or wide receivers, with running back Matt Forte failing to get into the action. However, Forte was the crutch Cutler leaned on all game long Sunday, as the two connected for 105 yards and a touchdown in the game.

Cutler also added a touchdown with his legs, as he finished with 27 Fantasy points. Cutler has been picked off twice in three of his five games, but has still managed to reach at least 20 Fantasy points in each of his games. Cutler has a great matchup on the way in Week 6 against the Falcons, and should be active in nearly all Fantasy leagues.

Bears QB Jay Cutler folds down the stretch in Sunday loss

by Marty Gitlin | CBSSports.com

(10/5/2014)Bears quarterback Jay Cutler performed well Sunday - until it mattered the most.

Cutler finished 28 of 36 for 289 yards with two touchdowns and two interceptions. But one of those picks with just under six minutes remaining allowed Carolina to score the game-tying field goal. Cutler also fumbled with a minute remaining to snuff out the team's last hopes.

A tipped interception tossed by Cutler in the first quarter was followed to a prolific passing display. Cutler fired a 10-yard scoring strike to running back Matt Forte two minutes later and ran the same distance in for a touchdown soon thereafer. He fired a 25-yard touchdown pass to Alshon Jeffery four minutes into the second quarter and continued to rack up the yards.

Cutler was 23 for 27 for 245 yards at one point before his collapse. He will try to finish the job next Sunday when the Bears travel to Atlanta.

Jay Cutler has a chance to bounce back

by Chris Towers | CBSSports.com

(10/1/2014)Bears quarterback Jay Cutler will look to bounce back from his worst game of the season when he takes on the Panthers in Week 5.

Cutler tossed six touchdowns without an interception in Weeks 2 and 3, before his two-pick performance against the Packers last Sunday. Still, he came out of the game with 18 Fantasy points, and has tossed at least two touchdowns in each game so far, so it isn't all bad.

He gets to take on a Panthers defense that was badly victimized by the pass last week, as Joe Flacco tossed three touchdowns and racked up 31 Fantasy points against them. The Panthers have yet to hold a quarterback below 15 Fantasy points this season, while allowing multiple touchdowns in three of four games.

As hard as it can be to trust Cutler at times, this is not the time to turn away from him. Both Jamey Eisenberg and Dave Richard consider him a top-12 quarterback for Week 5, so consider him a solid No. 1 option.

Bad habits resurface for Jay Cutler

by Scott White | Senior Fantasy Writer

(9/28/2014)For one game anyway, Bears quarterback Jay Cutler looked like the inconsistent passer who tormented Fantasy owners for his first four years with the Bears. He started out well enough with two touchdown passes in the first half before throwing two interceptions in the second half, ending productive drives for the Bears and turning them into scoring opportunities for the Packers. They were his first two interceptions since the two he had in Week 1.

One game is no cause for alarm, especially when the opponent has historically had Cutler's number (he's now thrown 19 interceptions against the Packers to just 13 touchdown passes), but it's a reminder that, for all the promise of the Bears offense, you may want to have a decent backup for Cutler just in case he goes bad again.

His Week 5 matchup at Carolina -- a team that started out great defensively before falling on hard times the last two weeks -- should be an interesting one. Personally, after the way Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco torched the Panthers in Week 4, I wouldn't pay a second thought to sitting Cutler.

Pair of Bears pitch in offensively in Week 4

Clausen completed his lone pass for nine yards in relief of Jay Cutler. Morgan racked up three receptions for 24 yards. Two of those catches came in the fourth quarter.

Second-half disaster spells doom for Jay Cutler

by Marty Gitlin | CBSSports.com

(9/28/2014)All was well for Bears quarterback Jay Cutler in Green Bay on Sunday. Then came the second half.

Cutler completed 14 of 20 passes with 165 yards and scoring strikes to Brandon Marshall and Alshon Jeffery before intermission. But he hit on just 8 of 14 for 91 yards and two interceptions thereafter in a lopsided loss. The pair of picks creeped his lifetime total against the Packers to 20.

The veteran, who also rushed for 29 yards on three carries, took 8:30 off the clock on the opening drive before hitting Marshall for the touchdown. He then threw for 118 yards in the second quarter, but it all went south from there.

Cutler will have a chance to redeem himself when Chicago travels to Carolina in Week 5.

Jay Cutler turns in workmanlike effort

by Larry Hartstein | Senior Analyst

(9/22/2014)For the second straight week, Bears quarterback Jay Cutler minimized mistakes in an effective but not spectacular performance. Cutler hit 23 of 38 throws for 225 yards and two touchdowns with no interceptions in Monday's 27-19 win at the Jets. He also ran five times for 14 yards.

Cutler lost a fumble, the first turnover he's committed since Week 1. And the Jets dropped an easy interception. Still, Cutler is up to eight touchdowns and three turnovers through three games. Cutler threw both touchdowns to tight end Martellus Bennett as No. 1 receiver Brandon Marshall struggled with an ankle injury.

Cutler plays the Packers in Week 4.

Jay Cutler shreds 49ers for four touchdown passes

by Larry Hartstein | Senior Analyst

(9/15/2014)Bears quarterback Jay Cutler played one of the finest games of his career Week 2 at San Francisco. After a ragged start, Cutler picked apart the 49ers. He hit 23 of 34 throws for 176 yards and four touchdowns with no interceptions or fumbles, and he ran five times for 25 yards.

It was an unusually discplined performance for Cutler, who posted a 119.2 passer rating.

Cutler began to heat up in the second quarter. Wideout Brandon Marshall helped him out with a ridiculous, one-handed 17-yard touchdown catch right before halftime, and Cutler was consistently brilliant in the second half, throwing just one incompletion.

He's up to six touchdown passes entering Week 3 at the Jets on Monday Night Football.

Report: Bears to part ways with Jordan Palmer

by Igor Mello | CBSSports.com

(8/24/2014)The Bears will release quarterback Jordan Palmer, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter on Sunday. Palmer lost the backup job to Jimmy Clausen in the preseason. He passed for 225 yards while completing 21 of 30 attempts, with one touchdown and one interception.

Jay Cutler picked off once in dress rehearsal game

Cutler was held out of the end zone and his last pass of the night resulted in an interception by Jeremy Lane late in the second quarter. He was sacked twice and compiled 157 yards through the air while completing 12 of 20 passes. He finished the game with a 64.0 passer rating.

Jay Cutler 'much quicker with his reads' in Year 2

by Larry Hartstein | Senior Analyst

(8/13/2014)Bears quarterback Jay Cutler, in Year 2 of coach Marc Trestman's offense, "looks like a quarterback who has done this before," reports the Chicago Sun-Times.

"He’s getting better," Trestman said. "He understands what we’re doing. The dialogue is fast. We understand what we need to get done. Our communication is very, very good. It’s a blast to work with him on and off the field."

"Jay has learned to solve his own problems on the field," Kromer said. "He’s much quicker this year with his reads. He knew them last year — don’t get me wrong — but it’s happening even faster for him.

"He’s understanding everything he’s seeing. He’s seeing the defensive line. He’s making the calls of who we want to Mike [identifying the middle linebacker]. He’s directing everything and then getting us in the correct call if we give him more than one play. It’s just happening at a faster pace, and that’s going to help our offense."

Jimmy Clausen to play ahead of Jordan Palmer on Thursday

by Larry Hartstein | Senior Analyst

(8/12/2014)Bears coach Marc Trestman said quarterback Jimmy Clausen will relieve Jay Cutler in Thursday's preseason game against the Jaguars, with Jordan Palmer playing third. Clausen and Palmer are fighting for the backup job.

Clausen hit 7 of 13 throws for 150 yards and two touchdowns in the preseason opener, while Palmer went 8 for 11 for 104 yards with one touchdown and one interception.

Jay Cutler strikes paydirt in first exhibition game

by Igor Mello | CBSSports.com

(8/8/2014)Bears quarterback Jay Cutler found the end zone in his first game of the preseason Friday night against the Eagles at Soldier Field.

Cutler played two series of offense and on his final series, he led his team to a 13-play, 69-yard drive, which resulted in a 10-yard touchdown pass to Zach Miller in the first quarter. He completed 9 of 13 pass attempts for 85 yards, with a touchdown and no interceptions, finishing with a 112.7 passer rating.

Jay Cutler 'poised to take major step'

by Larry Hartstein | Senior Analyst

(7/29/2014)Bears quarterback Jay Cutler is "poised to take a major step in Year 2 of Marc Trestman's offense," reports ESPN.com. Offensive coordinator Aaron Kromer told the website that Cutler has taken "more and more control by the day."

"Not that he didn’t before; he did," Kromer said. "But with his comfort level with all the things we’re trying to get done, he’s able to solve some of his own problems on the field, even when he didn’t maybe have that answer taught to him yet. It’s really helped that Jay has studied really hard all offseason. He’s worked on technique. He’s been one of the hardest-working guys on the team this offseason."

Cutler posted a career-best passer rating of 89.2 last year. His 63.1 completion percentage ranked second in franchise history.

Bears profess confidence in Jordan Palmer

by Larry Hartstein | Senior Analyst

(5/7/2014)With Josh McCown in Tampa Bay, Jordan Palmer likely will enter the season as the Bears' No. 2 quarterback behind Jay Cutler. Jerrod Johnson is the only other QB on the roster.

"I feel very good about [Palmer],” coach Marc Trestman told the Chicago Sun-Times. "I feel good about his preparation. His work ethic is very similar to Josh’s. He spends a lot of time here. He’s taken over the tradition now of getting these new guys ready.

"At this point, you’d have to feel good about Palmer’s experience. He doesn’t have a lot of hits on him right now. He’s very much engaged in the offense."

Palmer has thrown 15 career passes. The paper said Chicago might add a quarterback before camp, but it could be an undrafted free agent.

Jay Cutler's durability a big issue for Bears

by Larry Hartstein | Senior Analyst

(3/27/2014)Bears quarterback Jay Cutler won't have Josh McCown backing him up in 2014, which makes Cutler's durability a huge concern. Cutler missed five games last season with groin and ankle injuries and has not played all 16 games since 2009.

Coach Marc Trestman told the Chicago Tribune that the No. 1 goal for Cutler is "to get him through the season safely. That his durability is good, his availability is good. And then, not only him, but to get everybody to elevate their game another step.”

Bears give Jordan Palmer 'a lot of credit'

by Larry Hartstein | Senior Analyst

(3/23/2014)The Bears lost backup quarterback Josh McCown to the Buccaneers, but coach Marc Trestman said he gives Jordan Palmer "a lot of credit" for how he played in the 2013 preseason.

“He literally learned the offense on his own because we didn’t have time to work daily with him." Trestman told the Chicago Tribune. "He worked. He worked overtime and he learned the offense and came in and played admirably in the preseason. He moved the football team and was very sufficient.

“He’s got a lot of experience and not a lot of wear and tear. He’s been around a long time. Obviously, we’re going to have another one in there and see how that goes over the next couple of months.”

General manager Phil Emery expects to sign a free agent to compete with Palmer for the backup job.

Josh McCown 'willing' to leave Bears

by Larry Hartstein | Senior Analyst

(3/2/2014)Quarterback Josh McCown said "it's hard to want to be anywhere else" than Chicago. But the impending free agent is a realist, too. "I have to be willing to go somewhere else, if that's how it breaks," he told the Chicago Tribune.

McCown would back up Jay Cutler in Chicago. He'd compete for a starting job elsewhere.

"This is probably going to be the last time I stand in free agency with this kind of leverage," McCown, 34, told the paper. "So there's an understanding of an opportunity here to gain some more resources both to take care of our family and to do more good with."

Buccaneers, Bears have 'strong interest' in Josh McCown

by Larry Hartstein | Senior Analyst

(2/24/2014)Bears impending free agent Josh McCown is drawing "strong interest" from Chicago as well as the Buccaneers, with the Jets another possibility, reports NFL Network. It's the latest indication of a strong market for the 34-year-old quarterback, who threw 13 touchdowns against one interception last season.

McCown would back up Jay Cutler in Chicago, but would have a chance to start in Tampa Bay.

Josh McCown market heating up

by Larry Hartstein | Senior Analyst

(2/23/2014)Bears quarterback Josh McCown has said he wants to stay in Chicago, but his appeal on the free agent market could lead to his departure, reports ESPN.com. The Buccaneers and Jets have emerged as potential suitors for McCown, 34.

McCown threw 13 touchdowns and one interception and posted a 109.0 passing rating in relief of the injured Jay Cutler last season. The Bears went 3-2 in McCown's starts.

Josh McCown might return to Bears over starting job elsewhere

by Larry Hartstein | Senior Analyst

(1/29/2014)Quarterback Josh McCown, an impending free agent, said in a radio interview that he wants to remain with the Bears if at all possible, reports the Chicago Tribune. McCown said he won't rush to leave Chicago for any starting job.

“If an opportunity does come along to start, where is that team? What kind of team is that? And so on and so forth,” McCown told Waddle and Silverman on WMVP-AM 1000. “I’ve had opportunities. But it’s hard to leave a team, especially as a quarterback, in an offensive structure like we have and that we’re building and with the pieces that you have around you.

“Those things are all important as you look at this," he continued. "So it’s not just a cut and dried, ‘Oh this team will give you a chance to be a starter so let’s go there.’ I think it’s weighting what all is there and what that opportunity entails. ... It’s going to have to look really good for me to want to go somewhere else. Because again, my heart is in Chicago and that’s where I want to be.”

McCown, 34, made five starts and finished three other games in place of the injured Jay Cutler. He completed 66.5 percent of his passes for 1,829 yards and 13 touchdowns with one interception.

Staying in Chicago good for Jay Cutler's Fantasy value

by Dave Richard | Senior Fantasy Writer

(1/2/2014)The Bears' decision to stick with Jay Cutler -- reportedly for seven years and $54 million guaranteed -- suggests they're very happy to have him lead the offense. Based on how he did this year I'd agree.

He effectively played in only 10 games this year but in them he had over 250 yards six times, two-plus touchdowns seven times and 20-plus Fantasy points six times. It's not Peyton Manning-type numbers but it's not bad either. Cutler had as many 20-point games as Andrew Luck, Colin Kaepernick, Tom Brady and Robert Griffin III while playing in fewer games than each of them.

I really like the idea of continuity in Marc Trestman's offense. Not only will Cutler be in it for the second year in a row but other principals like Matt Forte, Brandon Marshall, Alshon Jeffery and Martellus Bennett will be there too. The offensive line should pretty much stay the same. I wouldn't overlook this aspect -- when you consider the best quarterbacks in Fantasy it's been because they've been in the same system for years, often with the same players. Cutler will have that now.

I really like the idea of waiting for Cutler on Draft Day, pairing him with another quarterback in the middle rounds.

Jay Cutler on return: 'We'll get it worked out'

by Larry Hartstein | Senior Analyst

(12/30/2013)Bears quarterback Jay Cutler, an impending free agent, said on his radio show that he wants to return to Chicago and that he expects a deal to get done, reports ESPN.com. "We'll find equal ground and we'll get it worked out," Cutler said.

Cutler said his agent and the Bears had no contract talks during the season.

Jay Cutler nearly gets it done in season finale

by Igor Mello | CBSSports.com

(12/29/2013)Bears quarterback Jay Cutler had never passed for more touchdowns than interceptions in a game against the Packers. He changed that trend despite throwing a late interception during Sunday’s home loss to the Packers in Week 17.

With the NFC North title on the line, Cutler got off to a fast start as he tossed a 4-yard touchdown pass to Matt Forte in the opening quarter. He then found a spinning Brandon Marshall for a 5-yard strike early in the fourth quarter. A Hail Mary pass from Cutler was intercepted by Sam Shields in the end zone to end the game, and the season for the Bears.

Cutler completed 15 of 24 passes for 226 yards, with two touchdowns and one interception in a 33-28 defeat. Cutler finished the season with 2,621 passing yards while throwing for 19 touchdowns and 12 interceptions over 11 games. He is set to become a free agent in 2014.

Jay Cutler still a solid start for must-win home game

by Igor Mello | CBSSports.com

(12/26/2013)With two games under his belt after an ankle injury, Bears quarterback Jay Cutler will be fighting for a playoff spot at home against the Packers in Week 17.

Cutler has averaged 243.5 passing yards while throwing for four touchdowns and three interceptions over his first two games back from injury. He has thrown a pick in each of his last four games played. He has not faced Green Bay this season.

Luckily for Cutler, the Packers have allowed nine touchdowns to opposing quarterbacks over the previous four games. The Packers have allowed 248.8 passing yards per game this season, which ranks 21st in the league. Opposing quarterbacks have scored 21.00 Fantasy points per game against Green Bay this season. Consider him a solid starting option heading into a must-win game at home against his NFC North rival.

Jay Cutler extends interception streak

by Larry Hartstein | Senior Analyst

(12/22/2013)Bears quarterback Jay Cutler and several other offensive starters were pulled in the fourth quarter at Philadelphia with Chicago trailing 47-11. Cutler's last play was a pick-6, Brandon Boykin picking off the telegraphed pass for a 54-yard touchdown.

It was Cutler's fourth straight game with an interception. In that stretch, he has five touchdown passes and five picks. Sunday night he went 20 of 35 for 222 yards with a touchdown and the interception before being replaced by Josh McCown.

Late in the third quarter, Cutler hit Brandon Marshall for a 6-yard touchdown and Earl Bennett for the 2-point conversion.

Despite being outplayed by McCown this season, Cutler is expected to start Week 17 when Chicago hosts Green Bay with the NFC North at stake.

Rust knocked off, Jay Cutler a high-end play Week 16

by Larry Hartstein | Senior Analyst

(12/17/2013)Aside from being cleated once, Bears quarterback Jay Cutler said he emerged from the win at Cleveland in good shape. His left ankle should be fine for Sunday's appetizing matchup at Philadelphia.

Cutler started poorly Week 15, throwing two first-half interceptions, after missing four straight games. By the end he had 265 passing yards and three touchdowns as Alshon Jeffery and Brandon Marshall dominated Cleveland's secondary. Cutler averaged 8.5 yards per attempt, second most this season.

The Eagles give up the 9th-most Fantasy points to quarterbacks and just got shredded by Matt Cassel for 382 yards and two passing scores. Cutler has thrown multiple touchdowns in six of his eight full games. Consider him a top-end QB1 on Sunday night.

Jay Cutler throws three touchdowns in return

by Nando Di Fino | Senior Fantasy Writer

(12/15/2013)Bears quarterback Jay Cutler, playing in his first game since Week 10, completed 22-of-31 passes for 265 yards and three touchdown's in Sunday's 38-31 win over the Browns. Cutler was intercepted twice.

Cutler didn't look especially sharp -- his 45-yard touchdown pass to Alshon Jeffery, for instance, was a high-arching lob that Jeffery somehow grabbed while situated between two defenders -- but Cutler was hit on that play, drawing a roughing the passer call. Cutler did manage to bounce back nicely from two first half interceptions (both with Brandon Marshall as the intended target, and both with the ball having bouced off hte hands of a player initially) to lead the team to victory.

As far as the ankle injury that had kept him out for four games, Cutler was limping a little bit intermittently, but never left the game.

The Bears play the Eagles in Week 16.

Jay Cutler takes the field Sunday

by Chris Towers | CBSSports.com

(12/15/2013)Bears quarterback Jay Cutler makes his return to the starting lineup Sunday, as he is officially active for Week 15 against the Browns. Cutler had missed four games due to an ankle injury, but was named the starter earlier in the week.

Bears to announce quarterback decision Thursday

by Larry Hartstein | Senior Analyst

(12/11/2013)Bears coach Marc Trestman said quarterback Jay Cutler's status for Sunday's game in Cleveland will be determined after Wednesday's walkthrough and publicized Thursday, reports the Chicago Tribune. Cutler has missed four straight games with an ankle injury, but Trestman said he was "optimistic" Cutler would get cleared.

"There's no change in the plan," Trestman told reporters after McCown threw for 348 yards and four touchdowns and ran for a score in the 45-28 win. "When Jay's ready to play, he'll be playing."

Cutler practiced last week but did not get cleared to play, missing his fourth straight game. The Bears visit Cleveland on Sunday.

Jay Cutler wants to return to lineup Week 14

by Michael Hurcomb | CBSSports.com

(12/2/2013)Bears quarterback Jay Cutler wants to return to the lineup Week 14 vs. Dallas, but he said Monday he hasn't been cleared yet after missing the last three games with an ankle injury. The Bears are 1-2 in the last three games.

"I want to play as soon as I can play. I’ve been out long enough," he said, per ESPN.

Coach Marc Trestman said Monday, "Jay will still be week to week. He’s progressing. We’ll see how he is Thursday."

Josh McCown has another 300-yard, two-TD game

by Michael Hurcomb | CBSSports.com

(12/1/2013)Bears quarterback Josh McCown used a big third quarter Sunday against the Vikings to put Chicago in position to win Week 13. Unfortunately, Chicago couldn't score in the fourth quarter or overtime, which allowed Minnesota to steal a 23-20 win.

McCown compiled the sixth 300-yard passing game of his career Sunday, completing 23 of 36 passes for 355 yards and two touchdowns. He finished with a 114.9 quarterback rating in the overtime loss.

McCown had a pretty quiet first half, as Chicago trailed 7-6 at halftime. He completed 14 of 23 passes for 154 yards, and it could have been even worse had an interception in the first quarter stood. But McCown got off the hook because of a defensive penalty on Minnesota. However, McCown came alive after halftime thanks to wide receiver Alshon Jeffery.

On the second play of the third quarter, Jeffery went 80 yards for a touchdown. On the team's next drive, McCown threw a 46-yard touchdown pass to Jeffery, who finished with 12 catches for 249 yards. Chicago took a 20-10 lead before Minnesota rallied for the win.

McCown has totaled 300-plus passing yards and two touchdowns in two straight games. The Bears are back in action Week 14 vs. Dallas. McCown will continue to start as long as Jay Cutler is sidelined by an ankle injury.

Week 13 is good time to have Josh McCown in Fantasy lineup

by Michael Hurcomb | CBSSports.com

(11/27/2013)Bears quarterback Josh McCown had the fifth 300-yard passing game and 12th multi-passing touchdown game of his career Week 12 at St. Louis. McCown now looks to throw for 300 yards and multiple touchdowns in consecutive games for just the second time in his career and first time since 2005 in Week 13 at Minnesota.

With how poorly the Vikings have played this season, it's possible McCown has another productive performance Sunday. Quarterbacks are averaging 23.8 Fantasy points per week against Minnesota, which is the second-highest average. Quarterbacks are also averaging 295.5 passing yards per game and have totaled 23 passing touchdowns to eight interceptions. Eight quarterbacks have thrown for multiple touchdowns against Minensota.

McCown has played pretty well in the absence of Jay Cutler. He's 2-1 as a starter this season, and he's completed 65.5 percent of his passes for 1,106 yards, seven touchdowns and one interception in five games. He's averaging 280 passing yards in his three starts and has thrown for multiple touchdowns in two starts.

McCown might not be a typical name you see near the top of the Fantasy quarterback rankings, but given his play and the favorable matchup, this is a good week to start the veteran quarterback.

Josh McCown has solid week 12 performance

(11/24/2013)Bears quarterback Josh McCown completed 36-of-47 passes for 352 yards and two touchdowns in Sunday's 42-21 loss to the Rams. McCown threw an interception and ran twice for four yards.

The interception was the first of the season for McCown, but the 352 yards shattered his season high (272 yards). It was the second time McCown threw multiple touchdowns this season, and the 36 completions were a career high.

McCown looked composed and sharp all day. His interception came on the team's final drive, down 21, with the Bears passing in an attempt to play catch-up.

McCown and the Bears travel to Minnesota to face the Vikings in Week 13.

Josh McCown has tough Week 12 task

by Nando Di Fino | Senior Fantasy Writer

(11/21/2013)Bears quarterback Josh McCown has performed admirably in place of Jay Cutler, throwing five touchdowns and no interceptions over parts of four games. He just hasn't been great, hitting the 20-point mark just once (although he has only started twice, and once was in the terrible Week 11 weather).

Week 12 brings a matchup with the Rams, who have been tough on opposing quarterbacks lately. After giving up an average of 24 Fantasy points per game over the first three games, the Rams haven't allowed a quarterback to score more than 18 since. Only one quarterback has thrown more than one touchdown pass since Week 6, and two failed to throw even one. While Andrew Luck passed for 353 yards in Week 10 against the Rams, they had two sub-200 yard games posted against them in the previous two weeks.

McCown has been good, just not great. And against a tough Rams pass defense coming off a bye with plenty of time to prepare, "good" may be his upside. He can be left on the bench in most formats.

Jay Cutler no lock to be ready Week 13

by Larry Hartstein | Senior Analyst

(11/18/2013)Bears quarterback Jay Cutler said on his radio show that he hopes to play the Vikings on Dec. 1 but is unsure if he'll be ready due to his high ankle sprain, reports the Chicago Tribune. Cutler revealed he got a new cast Monday that's 3-4 inches lower on his leg.

"I'm searching for any doctor in the country that will say, 'Hey, you can play on this [injury],' but we haven't found him yet," Cutler said, per the paper.

Cutler already has been ruled out Week 12 at St. Louis.

Josh McCown starting again Week 12

by Michael Hurcomb | CBSSports.com

(11/18/2013)Bears coach Marc Trestman announced Monday quarterback Josh McCown will make a second straight start Week 12 at St. Louis in place of Jay Cutler, who remains week to week with an ankle injury.

Jay Cutler won't be returning to lineup Week 12

by Michael Hurcomb | CBSSports.com

(11/18/2013)Bears coach Marc Trestman said Monday quarterback Jay Cutlerwill not return from an ankle injury Week 12 at St. Louis. He will be replaced by Josh McCown for a second straight start.

Josh McCown solid despite weather

by Chris Cwik | CBSSports.com

(11/17/2013)Bears quarterback Josh McCown was able to turn in a solid game despite dealing with bad weather Week 11.

McCown completed 19 of 31 passes for 216 yards and a touchdown. McCown wasn't asked to do too much, as the wind was a major problem for a large portion of the game. He was able to avoid the Ravens pass rush, constantly scrambling away from pressure. When the wind picked up, the Bears relyied solely on the run game. The team did not attempt a pass in the third quarter. With the wind in his favor, McCown displayed some big play ability. He hit Martellus Bennett on a 43 yard reception on the final drive of the game. It's unclear if McCown will get the start next week against the Rams.

Josh McCown looking to continue strong play Week 11

by Chris Cwik | CBSSports.com

(11/14/2013)Bears quarterback Josh McCown has a favorable matchup Week 11 against the Ravens.

Baltimore has allowed opposing quarterbacks to average 19.89 Fantasy points per game, which ranks 19th. The Ravens have been susceptible through the air, giving up 16 touchdowns to just seven interceptions. Baltimore is the top ranked team against opposing Fantasy rushers, so that could mean the Bears will have to rely on McCown in order to put points on the board.

McCown has turned in surprising performances in each of the three games he's played. In his only other full game this season, McCown tossed two touchdowns against the Packers. He threw for 272 yards in that game. He also led the team down the field in his only drive last week against the Lions. McCown probably lacks the upside of some other starting quarterbacks, but he's shown that he understands Chicago's offense, and should perform adequately against Baltimore.

Josh McCown to start in place of Jay Cutler Week 11

by Michael Hurcomb | CBSSports.com

(11/11/2013)Bears coach Marc Trestman announced Monday quarterback Jay Cutlerwill not play Week 11 vs. Baltimore because of a high ankle sprain suffered Sunday against the Lions. Trestman said Josh McCown will start against the Ravens.

Jay Cutler week to week with high ankle sprain

by Michael Hurcomb | CBSSports.com

(11/11/2013)The Bears announced Monday quarterback Jay Cutler suffered a high ankle sprain during Sunday's game against the Lions. The Bears list him as week to week.

X-rays come back negative for Jay Cutler's ankle

by Igor Mello | CBSSports.com

(11/10/2013)Bears quarterback Jay Cutler told reporters after Sunday's Week 10 loss to the Lions that his groin is fine and that his ankle forced him out of the game.

Cutler said he rolled his left ankle at some point in the second quarter. He underwent X-rays which came back negative, according to the Chicago Sun-Times. Cutler told ESPN Chicago, "I don't know. We'll see how it feels," when asked about his status for Week 11 against the Ravens.

Josh McCown scores in place of injured Jay Cutler

by Igor Mello | CBSSports.com

(11/10/2013)Bears quarterback Josh McCown came in for an injured Jay Cutler late in the fourth quarter of Sunday’s loss to the Lions in Week 10.

McCown hooked up with Brandon Marshall for an 11-yard touchdown with 47 seconds remaining in regulation. Matt Forte was unable to punch in the 2-point conversion from 1-yard out to send the game to overtime. He completed 6 of 9 passes for 62 yards with a touchdown in a 21-19 defeat. He was sacked once and finished with a quarterback rating of 123.4.

McCown could be ready to take over as the starting quarterback in Week 11 at home against the Ravens, depending on Cutler's status.

Jay Cutler leaves game late with ankle injury

by Igor Mello | CBSSports.com

(11/10/2013)Bears quarterback Jay Cutler was forced out of Sunday's game against the Lions in Week 10 with an ankle injury.

Cutler appeared to have re-aggravated his groin injury and had a swollen left hand throughout the game, although he was officially ruled out by the team with an ankle injury. He left the game with 2:18 remaining in the fourth quarter and was replaced by Josh McCown. He was unable to return for the final drive of the game.

Although bothered by injuries, Cutler did turn in a solid performance in his first game back since Week 7. He got off to a fast start and connected with Brandon Marshall for a 32-yard touchdown in the opening drive of the game. He was then picked off in the end zone by DeAndre Levy with under 30 seconds left in the first half.

Cutler completed 21 of 40 passes for 250 yards with one touchdown and one interception in a 21-19 defeat. He has 13 touchdowns and eight interceptions through eight games played.

Cutler will likely land on the injury report leading up to Week 11 at home against Baltimore.

Jay Cutler back in starting lineup

(11/10/2013)As expected, Bears quarterback Jay Cutler was officially ruled as active and back in the starting lineup for Sunday's showdown at home against the Bears in Week 10.

Cutler left Week 7 against Washington because of a groin injury and missed Week 8. He's averaged 226.7 passing yards with 12 touchdowns and seven interceptions through seven games played.

If healthy, Jay Cutler could be worth starting vs. Lions

by Igor Mello | CBSSports.com

(11/7/2013)Bears quarterback Jay Cutler has been cleared to play and is expected to start in Week 10 at home against the Lions. Luckily for Fantasy owners, Cutler only missed two weeks (one start) with a groin injury when he was originally scheduled to miss 4-6 weeks.

Cutler had scored 20-plus points in all but two of his first seven games before the injury. He threw for 317 yards with two touchdowns and three interceptions in his previous meeting against the Lions in Week 4. Another positive sign for Fantasy owners is that the Lions have allowed 20-plus Fantasy points to quarterbacks in three of the last four games. Opposing quarterbacks have averaged 19.00 Fantasy points per game against the Lions this season.

Cutler has been able to practice, but Fantasy owners should keep an eye on his status leading up to Sunday just in case. Our Fantasy experts have him all ranked in the Top 10. If he plays, consider him a viable starting option for Week 10, especially for owners with bye-week issues.

Trestman said if Cutler is cleared, then two days of practice will be enough for him to play Week 10 vs. Detroit.

"There's no gray area in this decision," Trestman said. "The doctors are either going to say he can play...and if he is, then he'll go."

Jay Cutler not yet committing to playing Week 10

by Michael Hurcomb | CBSSports.com

(11/5/2013)Bears quarterback Jay Cutler (groin) said during a radio interview Tuesday he is hoping to participate in the team's walk-through practice Wednesday and practice on Thursday. However, Cutler said it's too early to tell if he will be able to play Week 10 vs. Detroit.

"I don't think we can say I'll be out there for Detroit," he said. "We've got to be smart."

"We're in pretty good hands with Josh [McCown]. No need to rush back before I'm medically cleared," he said after Monday's game.

Josh McCown stings Packers in rare start

by Larry Hartstein | Senior Analyst

(11/4/2013)Making just his third start in six years, Bears quarterback Josh McCown accounted for nearly 300 yards and two touchdowns in Monday's win in Green Bay. He completed 22 of 41 throws for 271 yards, finding Brandon Marshall and Alshon Jeffery for scores, and had a 20-yard run. McCown did not commit a turnover.

The Bears came out throwing, McCown going 4 of 7 for 67 yards on their opening drive. Marshall capped it with a 23-yard touchdown grab while fighting off pass interference. In the third quarter, Alshon Jeffery outleaped defenders for a 6-yard touchdown as McCown placed it perfectly.

Report: Jay Cutler expected to start Week 10 vs. Lions

by Larry Hartstein | Senior Analyst

(11/4/2013)Bears quarterback Jay Cutler will return to practice this week and is expected to start Week 10 vs. the Lions, a source tells ESPN's Chris Mortensen. Cutler injured his groin Week 7 at Washington and originally was supposed to miss four weeks.

With Chicago getting a bye Week 8, Cutler would end up missing just 1 1/2 games if the report proves accurate. Quarterback Josh McCown is starting for the Bears on Monday Night Football.

Jay Cutler officially ruled out

Cutler was already expected to miss the game prior to being ruled out on Saturday's official injury report. Cutler is out with a groin injury and could miss a few more games after Week 9.

Jay Cutler 'highly unlikely' to face Packers

by Larry Hartstein | Senior Analyst

(10/29/2013)Bears coach Marc Trestman wouldn't rule out quarterback Jay Cutler for Monday's game in Green Bay, but said it was "highly unlikely" Cutler would play, reports the Bears Radio Network.

Originally, Cutler was expected to miss four weeks with the groin injury he suffered Week 7. Trestman said it's possible Cutler can beat that timetable.

Josh McCown might surprise in Week 9

by Larry Hartstein | Senior Analyst

(10/29/2013)Quarterback Josh McCown's Week 7 performance in relief of Jay Cutler gave his Bears teammates confidence. McCown hit 14 of 20 throws for 204 yards and a touchdown against the Redskins, posting a 119.6 passer rating.

‘‘Josh kind of set our minds at ease,’’ guard Matt Slauson told the Chicago Sun-Times. ‘‘He came in and did an incredible job from the start. So now I don’t think anybody’s thinking about [a drop-off]. We’re just going to execute the same plan.’’

With Cutler (groin) still sidelined, McCown makes his 34th career start, and first since 2011, at the Packers on Monday. McCown doesn't have Cutler's arm strength, but he can succeed because he's got great weapons in Matt Forte, Brandon Marshall, Alshon Jeffery and Martellus Bennett. The bye gave McCown extra time to get comfortable leading the offense.

The Packers give up the 13th-most points to opposing quarterbacks, 20.7 per game. Quarterbacks have accounted for 13 touchdowns and five turnovers against the Packers. Consider McCown a high-end QB2 for Week 9.

Star receiver predicts Jay Cutler will be back in two weeks

by Michael Hurcomb | CBSSports.com

(10/24/2013)The diagnosis for Bears quarterback Jay Cutler is he will miss at least four weeks due to a torn groin muscle suffered Week 7 at Washington. Well, Bears wide receiver Brandon Marshall put on his doctor scrubs Thursday and predicted Cutler would return sooner than four weeks.

"I predict Jay Cutler will be back in two weeks," Marshall said during a visit on "Andrea Mitchell Reports" to promote his recent mental health advocacy efforts, per The Chicago Tribune. "They say four to six (weeks), but we got the right people around Jay right now. So we'll get it done. Two weeks."

Bears to sign Jordan Palmer as backup QB

by Michael Hurcomb | CBSSports.com

(10/21/2013)Bears coach Marc Trestman confirmed the team will sign quarterback Jordan Palmer to back up Josh McCown, who will start for Chicago with Jay Cutler expected to miss at least four weeks with a groin injury. Trestman said the Bears chose Palmer because "he became very affluent in our offensive language very quickly" during the preseason.

Injury opens up opportunity for Josh McCown

by Michael Hurcomb | CBSSports.com

(10/21/2013)The Bears announced Monday quarterback Jay Cutler will be out at least four weeks due to a torn groin muscle. Therefore, Josh McCown will take over under center when Chicago returns from its bye in Week 9 at Green Bay.

"Hopefully, [I can] keep us going and keep us in a good position so that when he does come back we're in the hunt and making a run," McCown said.

Jay Cutler out at least four weeks due to groin injury

by Michael Hurcomb | CBSSports.com

(10/21/2013)The Bears announced Monday quarterback Jay Cutler will be out at least four weeks with a torn groin muscle. Josh McCown came on to replace Cutler during Sunday's 45-41 loss at Washington.

Jay Cutler to have MRI on injured groin

by Larry Hartstein | Senior Analyst

(10/20/2013)Bears quarterback Jay Cutler on Monday will have an MRI on his injured groin, the team said. Cutler suffered the injury in the second quarter of Sunday's loss at Washington.

Chicago is on a bye in Week 8, giving Cutler more time to recover.

Josh McCown needed in relief of Jay Cutler

by Jeff Lippman | CBSSports.com

(10/20/2013)Bears backup quarterback Josh McCown was needed on Sunday during the Week 7 loss at Washington. McCown came in the game after starter Jay Cutler suffered a groin injury and couldn't return.

McCown had a solid game behind Cutler as the Redskins held on to win 45-41. The backup QB finished 14 of 20 for 204 yards with a touchdown and no picks. He had a QB rating of 119.6. McCown also rushed four times for 33 yards in the game.

Chicago has a bye Week 8 and returns Week 9 at Green Bay on Monday night. The team signed Jordan Palmer and would likely roll with McCown as the starter if Cutler cannot get healthy in time.

Jay Cutler suffers groin injury

by Jeff Lippman | CBSSports.com

(10/20/2013)Bears quarterback Jay Cutler had to leave Sunday's Week 7 game at Washington with just under 10 minutes to play in the first half due to a left hip injury. Cutler was sacked and appeared to suffer the hip issue during the play.

Cutler walked off the field gingerly and into the locker room and could not return for the Bears. He is lucky the team has a bye Week 8 and will hope to return for the Week 9 Monday night game at Green Bay. Josh McCown entered the game for Cutler after he was hurt.

Cutler finished the game going 3 for 8 for 28 yards and an interception that was returned for a touchdown by Brian Orakpo prior to leaving. He underwent X-rays in the locker room on his lower body and was later ruled out for the rest of the contest.

Feeling good about Jay Cutler Week 7

by Jeff Lippman | CBSSports.com

(10/17/2013)Bears quarterback Jay Cutler takes the field Sunday in Washington Week 7 looking to continue avoiding mistakes. Cutler has avoided throwing an interception in two straight games and three of his last four.

The bad news is that Cutler tossed three picks Week 4 at Detroit. That said, he has at least two TDs in every game this year except Week 3 at Pittsburgh. He's also gone over 300 yards in two of his last three.

More bad news for Cutler's production Week 7 would be the fact that he has one terrible game against the Redskins under his belt. Back in 2010 at home, Cutler went 26 for 40 for 281 yards with a touchdown and four interceptions and a fumble lost against Washington.

This year's Redskins team has not been very good at stopping the pass, however. They are allowing the ninth-most Fantasy points per game to opposing QBs. Of course, they haven't allowed more than one TD pass in each of their last two games against Matt Flynn and Tony Romo.

Cutler should have a solid game Sunday and continue putting up solid Fantasy statistics. Washington's defense will put up a fight, but Fantasy owners can roll with Cutler as a No. 1 Fantasy QB for the Week 7 game.

Jay Cutler throws two more scores in win

by Chris Towers | CBSSports.com

(10/10/2013)Bears quarterback Jay Cutler had another solid performance Thursday, in leading the way to a 27-21 win over the Giants in Week 6.

Cutler threw two more touchdowns without an interception, while completing 24 of 36 passes for 262 yards. He found his favorite target, Brandon Marshall, for both scores, from 10 and 3 yards.

Cutler has had a solid start to the season, passing for 12 touchdowns and six interceptions in six games, including at least two scores in five of them.

The Bears have some extra time before their next game, thanks to the early start. Cutler will next face the Redskins in Week 7 next Sunday.

Jay Cutler overcomes early turnover

by Chris Cwik | CBSSports.com

(10/6/2013)Bears quarterback Jay Cutler lost a fumble early, but recovered to post a strong game through the air.

Cutler finished the game going 24 for 33, for 358 yards. He threw two touchdowns. Cutler was held in check early, as the Saints showed a lot of blitzes. While he throw some questionable incompletions, Cutler did not throw a pick. Cutler also added 27 yards on the ground.

Later in the game, Cutler was able to exploit the Saints for big gains. New Orleans did a great job limiting Brandon Marshall and Martellus Bennett, but Cutler was able to find Alshon Jeffery consistently.

Cutler will face off against the winless Giants Week 6.

Jay Cutler facing tough defense Week 5

The Saints have seen a defensive resurgence under Rob Ryan. The team ranks second with just 10.50 Fantasy points allowed to opposing quarterbacks. While Cutler has been better early on, he's coming off his first disaster game of the year, in which he threw three interceptions. The Saints have forced one of the highest interception rates thus far.

Despite the struggles last week, Cutler has been much improved in Marc Trestman's offense. Through four games, Cutler is posting the highest completion percentage of his career (64.2%). He's already on pace to have his best yardage season since joining Chicago, with 1,010 through the first quarter of the year.

Cutler has played two career games against New Orleans. In those two games he's completed just over 50% of his passes, and has tossed 3 touchdowns to 1 interception. The Saints defense seems much improved through the first four games, which should test Cutler.

Jay Cutler can't 'pin down' reason for success vs. Detroit

by Michael Hurcomb | CBSSports.com

(9/26/2013)Bears quarterback Jay Cutler has thrived in his career against Detroit -- Chicago's Week 4 opponent. He is 7-2 in nine career games against Detroit, completing 63.7 percent of his passes for 1,822 yards, 12 touchdowns and one interception.

Since 2010, Cutler has won five of six games against Detroit, posting a 96.1 quarterback rating.

"I don’t think we can pin it down or anything," Cutler said of his success against Detroit, per ESPN. "They’re getting better and better on defense and offensively. So they’re becoming a team that you’ve got to take seriously. Where we’re at in our season, especially offensively, we’ve got to get to work this week. We’ve just got to finish up (Friday) and be ready for a pretty big challenge, because offensively, they’re capable of scoring a lot of points. Defensively, they’re playing well, especially on third down."

Jay Cutler not asked to do much against Steelers

by Igor Mello | CBSSports.com

(9/23/2013)Bears quarterback Jay Cutler was not asked to much as he turned in a mistake-free performance Sunday night against the Steelers in Week 3. He threw for one touchdown and was held under 200 yards passing.

Cutler hooked up with Earl Bennett, who made a juggling catch in the end zone for a 17-yard touchdown on 3rd-and- 5 with under six minutes remaining in the game. He completed 20 of 30 passes for 159 yards with one touchdown and no interceptions in a 40-23 victory. He also ran for 11 yards on four carries. He was sacked twice and finished with a 90.8 passer rating.

Cutler has 693 yards passing with six touchdowns and three interceptions through his first three games. He will look for a bounce-back performance in Week 4 at Detroit. He threw for 257 yards with one touchdown and no interceptions in his previous meeting against the Lions in Week 17 of last year.

Jay Cutler feels 'much more comfortable' in 2013

by Michael Hurcomb | CBSSports.com

(9/19/2013)Entering Week 3 in 2012, the Bears were coming off a disappointing loss to the Packers and had a lot of questions to answer. Heading into Week 3 this season, the Bears are 2-0 and riding high under first-year coach Marc Trestman.

"We’re in a good spot right now," Cutler said, per The Chicago Tribune. "I think it goes back to the protection. With our ability to protect right now it opens up a lot of holes out there. They’ve got to protect the whole field and we’re getting three, four seconds at a time to scan things over and find the open guy.

"I am much more comfortable, I think. Not as comfortable as I want to be with these guys yet. That’s just a trust factor. The more I watch film, the better I feel about it. Just sitting back there in the pocket and going through my reads and trusting we’ve got the protection we need."

Good Jay Cutler takes over with game on the line against Vikings

by Marty Gitlin | CBSSports.com

(9/15/2013)The good, bad and ugly that have defined the career of Bears quarterback Jay Cutler were all on display in the team's division showdown against Minnesota on Sunday. He completed 28 of 39 passes for 290 yards, three touchdowns and two interceptions.

Fortunately, his good outweighed his bad and ugly and came at just the right time. Cutler engineered a 10-play, 66-yard drive on the last possession and hit tight end Martellus Bennett for the winning score with 16 seconds remaining in a scintillating 31-30 win. Cutler finished with a fine 97.2 rating.

Cutler showed an ability to spread the wealth, finding Bennett and wide receiver Brandon Marshall for seven receptions each and running back Matt Forte for 11.

He will have a chance to help his team to a third straight win to start the season when the Bears play at Pittsburgh next Sunday night.

Cutler has say in new offense

by Dave Richard | Senior Fantasy Writer

(5/14/2013)Bears quarterbacks coach Matt Cavanaugh told the Chicago Tribune that Jay Cutler has had a say in what the team's new offense will look like. Impressed with Cutler's football knowledge, Cavanaugh says Cutler's arm is one of the best he's ever been around. "I think he's embracing how we want to approach things," Cavanaugh said. "There has been a lot of give and take. We didn't come in here with a mandate that this is exactly how we're doing it and there is no leeway. We wanted his feedback. He's been willing to do that. It's a good working relationship now. ... We're trying to impress on him, Marc [Trestman] too, that our job is to protect you and allow you to finish the throwing motion. If that's our sole focus for you, you have to hold up your end and hitch into throws and follow through and throw a bunch of completions."

Cutler not worried about contract

by Dave Richard | Senior Fantasy Writer

(4/17/2013)Jay Cutler is entering a contract year but says he's not sweating it. After his first practice under new coach Marc Trestman, Cutler has a positive outlook on the upcoming season and figures he'll earn his next contract. "I'm not worried about those things," Cutler said. "Every year you put pressure on yourself. Every team in the NFL right now is preparing to win the Super Bowl. We're doing the same thing. We just have to run this offense and defensively they continue to play at a high level and hopefully we'll win some games."

Trestman: We'll build around Cutler

by Dave Richard | Senior Fantasy Writer

(2/21/2013)Bears head coach Marc Trestman has had the chance to talk with quarterback Jay Cutler and believes giving him "resources" to work with will help him and the team win games. "I'm excited to coach Jay. I've had a couple of opportunities to talk to him, on multiple levels and work on all facets of his game. I really am," Trestman said from the NFL combine Thursday. "He's an extremely bright guy, he loves football and he's got a great skill set, so we have to work hard to provide him the resources to maximize his abilities."

Trestman wants to protect Cutler

by Jamey Eisenberg | Senior Fantasy Writer

(1/17/2013)Marc Trestman introduced himself to Bears fans on Thursday, and one of the most important questions of the day involved the use of quarterback Jay Cutler. Trestman had an interesting answer when asked directly if Cutler was a franchise quarterback. Jay Cutler is a guy who loves football, he's a guy who's willing to learn, he wants to do everything he can to help this franchise and please our amazing fans, Trestman said. That's where we're going to start. We're going to go to work one day at a time in proactive terms with a sense of urgency to get him where we want him to be and where he wants to be. Trestman made sure to let people know that he understands the importance of protecting the quarterback who's been victimized by 149 sacks during the past three years. I'm going to be responsible for keeping Jay and our quarterbacks safe in the pocket, Trestman said.  ... On the offensive side, it starts and ends with the quarterback. We've got to protect our quarterback and keep him safe."

Cutler excited for Trestman

by Jamey Eisenberg | Senior Fantasy Writer

(1/17/2013)The Chicago Tribune reports that Bears quarterback Jay Cutler is excited for now head coach Marc Trestman. Cutler said Wednesday he expects a quarterback-friendly offense and indicated he cant wait to get going in what will be his fourth offense in five seasons with the franchise. Cutler told the website he likes the roots Trestmans system has in the West Coast offense, something he is familiar with from his days under Mike Shanahan with the Broncos. It's a great hire," Cutler said. "I couldn't be more excited. I've talked to guys around the league and did my own research on him. He's an offensive mind, a great person and a guy that's going to come in and hopefully lead us to many victories in the future. "He's been successful wherever he's been. He's from the West Coast coaching tree, which I'm familiar with. It's what I came into the league with with Shanahan, so I'm looking forward to it. He understands quarterbacks. He understands their thought process and the minds of quarterbacks and what we have to go through. It's going to be a quarterback-friendly system and I can't wait to get started with him."

Cutler reunites with Trestman

by Dave Richard | Senior Fantasy Writer

(1/16/2013)The Bears hired Marc Trestman to serve as their head coach, giving him the chance to work with quarterback Jay Cutler again. The two huddled before Cutler's combine workout back in the summer of 2006. Trestman joins Chicago after five years as a head coach with the Montreal Alouettes in the Canadian Football League, six years as an assistant in the college ranks and 17 years in a number of roles in the NFL. He's worked with quarterbacks like Steve Young and Rich Gannon, among others, and has a pretty good track record of leaning on his quarterbacks. He also has a history of helping develop quarterbacks, basically as a tutor prior to the NFL Draft, which he did last season with Brandon Weeden and Brock Osweiler. The Bears also hired ex-Saints interim head coach Aaron Kromer to be their offensive coordinator.

2013 a prove-it year for Cutler?

by Dave Richard | Senior Fantasy Writer

(1/2/2013)When Bears GM Phil Emery was asked if Jay Cutler was the team's long-term answer at quarterback, he suggested it would be determined in the 2013 season. Cutler is scheduled for free agency after 2013. "That answer is going to come as we move forward with a new head coach," Emery said Monday. "Am I convinced that Jay has the talent to be that? Yes, I am. I see Jay as a franchise quarterback. We've got to build around him. That's been the goal from the beginning, to build around Jay and to build our team towards championships."